UKRAINE 101......


To fully understand the crisis in Ukraine you need to understand the History of the country. Modern Ukraine was a member of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth from 1569 to 1772 when it became annexed by Russia as a protectorate. Russia controlled Ukraine until 2014 when it became 'independent' due to US and European support. Today Russian in one of the official languages of the Ukraine spoken by 29% of the population.

In short; Ukraine has been a part of Russia for over 250 years. Today a third of the population are Russian and speak the Russian language. In 2014 Ukraine was allowed to become a separate country. NATO and the US used this to create a "foothold" in Eastern Europe, much like Russia has done with Cuba. Russia does not want the Ukraine to become a NATO member.

Before you draw any conclusions consider Texas. 

The recorded history of Texas begins with the arrival of the first Spanish conquistadors in the region of North America now known as Texas in 1519. The name Texas derives from táyshaʼ, a word of the Hasinai, which means "friends" or "allies." 

During the period from 1519 AD to 1821, Texas was claimed by Spain. Mexico claimed Texas from 1821 to 1836 and encouraged European settlement. Over 30,000 Anglo Europeans settled there during this time. The result was The Republic of Texas from 1836 to 1846. Texas was admitted to the United States of America in 1848 and seceded in 1861 to join the Confederacy. 

In short, Texas has a history of claims and sovereignty. Nobody would agree that Texas is an independent country or part of Mexico today. 29% of the residents speak Spanish at home. Here is a breakdown of Spanish speakers by county.



CONCLUSION:
Ukraine has been a part of Russia longer than Texas has been a part of the US. The problems in Ukraine are between Russia and its neighbors. NATO and the US should not be involved. Russia views the Ukraine as a sovereignty issue and much like we would view Texas, worth fighting to control. America is meddling in Russia's business in an effort to establish military bases in Ukraine. This is not going to happen.



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